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Wednesday, November 12, 2014

BYB HOT STOVE: VOLUME 1

We are beginning a new feature here at BYB called BYB HOT STOVE. Every Wednesday from now until the start of the season, we will focus on hot news items and rumors in and around the MLB with a focus, of course, on the Yankees.

Anxious to find a shortstop to fill the void on the left side of the field vacated by Derek Jeter, the Yankees could go after Texas Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus. According to Sporting News, "Andrus has been an outstanding defensive shortstop (though his 2014 defensive metrics slipped a bit), he’s solid at the plate for the position (career .272 average, .335 on-base percentage, average of 32 stolen bases a year) and he’ll be just 26 heading into next season. Plus, he’s already locked into a long-term deal. He’s not cheap — the eight-year, $120 million extension he signed in April 2013 kicks in for the 2015 season — but the deal would provide position certainty for a long time." Not loving the longterm deal prospect but I am loving his youthfulness and the speed he could bring to the team.

There is also some buzz around the possibility of Troy Tulowitzki checking out of Colorado for some New York baseball. But, in order to secure someone like Tulowitzki it's going to cost us some pitching prospects. According to NBC Hardball, the shortstop is talking to the other New York team about joining their club. After scoring Michael Cuddyer on Monday, the Mets are looking at Tulowitzki. He has a big contract with the Rockies through 2020. Frankly, I would pass. He hasn't been healthy for several years and we can't afford no longevity and quick fixes at shortstop.

Both New York teams have shown an interest in Phillies' shortstop Jimmy Rollins. The Mets were on the horn with Philadelphia just yesterday according to ESPNNewYork.com. "Rollins, as a longtime Phillie, has full no-trade protection. He will earn $11 million next season, then is eligible for free agency," states the report. According to Phillies GM Ruben Amaro, "If it is ever the right time, I will have the conversation, but Jimmy will be the one who decides where he is going.” 36-years-old, bad attitude and work ethic issue are not what we need here in the Bronx. The Mets can have him. The Phillies do have the biggest for sale sign up this off season, so look for movement of veteran players as the team rebuilds.